The Port Of Nassau, Bahamas

A favorite port for three and four day cruises out of Florida as well as returning longer cruises, Nassau has a lot to offer.

Where You’re Ship Docks

Cruise ships dock at Prince George Wharf, sometimes as many as five are there at once. The wharf is located right in downtown Nassau with a large number of good restaurants and plenty of “duty free” shopping. The island is also famous for it numerous great beaches as well as coral reefs, sport fishing and boating.

Downtown Nassau, The Bahamas
Downtown Nassau, The Bahamas

Crossing a bridge in downtown Nassau gets you to Paradise Island, home of Atlantis and other resorts. It is a two mile walk from the cruise piers over to Paradise Island across a connecting bridge.

Transportation
harbour light
Harbour Entrance

If you just want to walk around and see the town it is only a short stroll into the main downtown area. You can rent cars and scooters right at the wharf as well as book land and water tours. Taxis are readily available but you need negotiate price before heading out. If you are going to rent a car and especially a scooter pay special attention as the Bahamas drive on the left.

Currency

The countries currency is the Bahama Dollar which is on par with the U.S. Dollar but there is no need to change currency as the U.S. Dollar is readily accepted. Most major credit cards and many debit cards are welcome.

Cruise ships in port
Cruise ships in port
Attractions

Because it is the nearest foreign country to the Eastern United States, Nassau takes full advantage of its duty free status. Downtown Nassau offers a number of opportunities for saving on duty free goods but know the U.S. duty free limits before you start shopping.

Traveling three miles east along the north shore out of Nassau you’ll find the exclusive Cable Beach area, a resort beach with great beaches and a number of good restaurants and spectacular resort hotels. Nearer to town there is also Paradise Island featuring the Atlantis resort (most cruise ships offer day tours over to Atlantis to visit the water park, beaches and exhibits).

Atlantis
Atlantis
  • Atlantis on Paradise Island   A destination all its own. Features aater park, aquariums, beaches, restaurants and more. Requires admission (day passes) unless you are a resort guest.
  • Fort Fincastle  1793 stone fort & former lighthouse
  • Ardastra Gardens Zoo, gardens & conservation center
  • Prince George Wharf    The cruise ship dock with local crafts and tour vendors
  • Clifton Heritage Park   Nature trails, historic ruins & beaches
  • Dolphin Cay Atlantis & Bahamas Dolphin Adventure  Marine habitat with dolphin interaction
  • Marine Habitat at Atlantis    Large aquarium at the upscale resort
  • Fort Charlotte   1788 stone fort with moats & dungeons
  • Queen’s Staircase   Stone staircase, circa 1793
  • Pirates of Nassau   Pirate museum with replica ships and good exhibits
  • National Art Museum Local history & art in a historic villa
  • Sea Trek Helmet Diving. An interesting way to explore under water

Good links for additional information:

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